12th Nov 2009
Fish Tank Sand Filter
Fish tank sand filters are among the latest developments designed to make aquarium maintenance easier. This recent aquarium filter technology uses sand as the bacteria settlement media. Sand is part of the filter system itself, and contains beneficial bacteria that can break down the waste chemicals in your fish tank. Most commonly, it is called live sand because they are collected from ocean beds. Friendly microscopic biological bacteria, minute crustaceans and other micro organisms reside in them making them live.
Fishes constantly produce waste. These metabolic wastes excrete ammonia and other detrimental bacteria that could make your fish really sick. As food debris and other organic matter breaks down, they could be a source of ammonia as well. Nitrosomonas bacteria, organisms abundant in most fishtanks, convert these toxic ammonia into nitrite, which is another known toxic compound. A fish tank sand filter converts the nitrite to nitrate, a harmless compound, in a process called nitification. This is done with the help of the beneficial organism present in the live sand, Nitrobacter bacteria. The mechanism works by pumping water up and lifting sand into a fluidized bed. The beneficial bacteria in the filter dissolve the ammonia and nitrite (toxic waste compounds) and with passing water and nutrients, they are converted to the non-toxic compound nitrate. As the sand filter allows nitrification to take place, it also facilitates the removal of soluble waste. The constant rubbing of sand grains removes the loosely attached sand debris and the bacterial colonies.
Since it is a biological filter, a mechanical filter (internal or external) is required. Additional tubes can serve as mechanical (pre-filters) or even chemical filters. Fish tank sand filters are readily available in aquatic supply stores and their prices could vary on the brand and sophistication. Units could have varying capacities and designs are developed for bigger and extra sand holding capacity. A fish tank sand filter made from corrosion-proof material is advised for minimal care and longevity. Some are even designed to use anaerobic microbes. With its mechanism, the anaerobic microbes degrade nitrate to gaseous oxygen. In whatever mechanism they differ, all sand tank filters perform to maintain excellent water clarity. Obtaining real live sand is the key to success in this filtration system.
A fish tank sand filter is a very versatile addition to your aquarium application since it could work in conjunction with mechanical filters. It may not be efficient when used alone, but is proven very necessary to maintain chemistry in your fish tank. Overfeeding greatly contributes to the abundance and development of ammonia. Overcrowding could cause the production of excessive wastes resulting to ammonia production as well. A fish tank sand filter in your system is a great way to maintain high water quality and ensure your tank stays clean and your fishes stay healthy and happy.
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